Speak Up! Strategies to Encourage Authentic and Effective Discussions in the ELL Classroom Maura Nugent

A Roadmap for the next hour… Defining discussion Initial thoughts Why discussion matters Principles of effective discussion Discussion activities Q + A

Discussion “the act of talking about something with another person or a group of people” “the action or process of talking about something, typically in order to reach a decision or to exchange ideas” “consideration of a question in open and usually informal debate”

Spectrum Discussion I often use discussion activities in my ELL classroom I know multiple strategies or activities to create good discussion in my classroom Discussion cannot and should not be assessed The biggest barrier to good discussion in an ELL classroom is student self confidence Speaking ability is the most important skill we can develop for English language learners

Think-Pair-Share Why is discussion important in an ELL classroom?

Student engagement and motivation Opportunity for holistic and authentic language use Ability to participate in discussions is one of the most important tools we can empower our students with – no matter where they go next

Effective discussions can… Lessen the barriers of self-consciousness Enable students to learn from each other Increase skills in multiple areas including: writing, reading, pronunciation, listening comprehension, vocabulary, grammar knowledge, etc.

Silent Discussion What are some principles that guide effective discussions? What things should be considered when using discussion in an ELL classroom? What advice would you give a teacher who wants to use discussion in his/her ELL classroom?

Know your students when choosing topics

Choose what students will want to, even need to talk about Develop based on knowledge of your specific students’ interests and passions Be thoughtful about “controversial” topics Know what your students will need in terms of structure

Be purposeful in structuring the discussion

Discussion activities versus open- ended, loose-format discussion Ensure everyone’s voice is heard: grouping, guidelines/norms, eliciting responses Again, know your students!

Be explicit about discussion goals and structures with students

Physical arrangement of classroom Establishing guidelines/ norms Teach principle of “step up” and “step back” Goal = communication and fluency Assessment

Discussion Activities Spectrum Discussion Think-Pair-Share Silent Discussion Four Corners A/D Statements Read and Say Something Student Generated Questions Collaborative Decision Making Mini-debates Speed Discussing Discussion Circles Silent Discussion Go-Around